There are all kinds of toxic people and that’s why they’re not always easy to spot. They may be hiding under a number of guises such as helplessness, anger, victimization, insecurity, aggressiveness both passive and/or active, not to mention using you as a doormat: the appearance of any of these characteristics should be taken as a warning to keep them just out of reach. These people are unable to address their weaknesses alone and lie in wait or go forth and search for unsuspecting victims, someone new to dominate and mistreat.

Nevertheless, although there are toxic people who are blissfully unaware that they are being deliberately awkward, most will be stunned and confused by critical observation, and on feeling cornered, seeing their world about to crumble, will – to everyone’s detriment – very often cling even more fiercely to their power fantasy.

As with all toxic products, handle them with care and stand back to a safe distance.